Drainage device and steamer

Abstract

This invention provides a drainage device and a steamer to overcome the problems of noise and water leakage that easily occur when using a water pump to drain residual water. The drainage device includes: a water storage box, a water pump, and a fixing sleeve; the water storage box is used to collect residual water, and has an inlet pipe for collecting residual water and an outlet pipe for discharging residual water; the water pump is installed in the fixing sleeve, which is connected to the water storage box, and the inlet end of the water pump is connected to the outlet pipe of the water storage box; the outlet pipe is disposed on the side wall of the water storage box, and the side wall of the water storage box is also provided with an extension ring located on the outer periphery of the outlet pipe; the inlet end of the water pump is inserted into the extension ring and communicates with the outlet pipe; an elastic sealing sleeve is also provided between the inlet end of the water pump and the extension ring.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a drainage device and a steam oven. Background Technology

[0002] A steam oven is a kitchen product that converts water into high-temperature steam to cook food using 100% steam. It has a powerful pure steaming function and can quickly cook dishes such as steamed vegetables, steamed rice, steamed soup, and reheated food.

[0003] In related technologies, a steam oven includes a water pump, a water tank, a steam generator, and an inner liner. During operation, the water pump draws water from the tank into the steam generator to produce a large amount of high-temperature steam, which cooks the food in the inner liner. This process generates a large amount of steam, which condenses into water when it encounters a cooler object. This condensate easily accumulates at the bottom of the inner liner, forming excess water. Furthermore, during cooking, food releases water and grease, which also accumulates as excess water in the inner cavity. Therefore, it is necessary to temporarily store and drain this condensate.

[0004] However, when draining the residual water, if the conventional method of fastening the water pump to the steamer body with bolts is used, the vibration during the operation of the water pump can easily lead to excessive noise and residual water leakage. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention provides a drainage device and a steamer to overcome the problems of noise and water leakage that are easily caused by using a water pump to drain excess water.

[0006] The drainage device provided in this embodiment of the invention includes: a water storage box, a water pump, and a fixing sleeve; the water storage box is used to collect residual water, and the water storage box has an inlet pipe for collecting residual water and an outlet pipe for discharging residual water; the water pump is installed in the fixing sleeve, the fixing sleeve is connected to the water storage box, and the inlet end of the water pump is connected to the outlet pipe of the water storage box; wherein, the outlet pipe is disposed on the side wall of the water storage box, and the side wall of the water storage box is also provided with an extension ring, the extension ring is located on the outer periphery of the outlet pipe, the inlet end of the water pump is inserted into the extension ring and communicates with the outlet pipe; an elastic sealing sleeve is also provided between the inlet end of the water pump and the extension ring.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the fixing sleeve includes: a mounting cover and a connecting edge; the water pump is installed in the mounting cover; the connecting edge is located on the outer side of the mounting cover away from the water pump and extends outward; the water tank is provided with a plurality of spaced fixing posts; and the connecting edge is fastened to the fixing posts by fasteners.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the elastic sealing sleeve includes: a sealing body and a plurality of spaced ribs; the sealing body abuts against the water inlet end of the water pump and the extension ring; the ribs are disposed on the sealing body and extend circumferentially along the sealing body.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the elastic sealing sleeve further includes: a first folded edge and a second folded edge; the first folded edge is disposed at the end of the sealing body facing the water outlet pipe and folded inward relative to the sealing body, and the first folded edge abuts against the end face of the water inlet end and the side wall of the water tank; the second folded edge is disposed at the end of the sealing body away from the water outlet pipe and folded outward relative to the sealing body, and the second folded edge abuts against the end face of the extension ring and the water pump.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the drain pipe is partially recessed downward relative to the inner side of the bottom wall of the water storage box.

[0011] In one possible implementation, at least one water guide groove is provided on the inner side of the bottom wall of the water storage box, the water guide groove being used to guide the remaining water in the water storage box to the water outlet pipe.

[0012] In one possible implementation, along the height direction of the water storage box, the inlet pipe of the water storage box is higher than the outlet pipe.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the water storage box has a first end with the water outlet pipe and a second end opposite to the first end; from the second end to the first end, the bottom inner wall of the water storage box is inclined downward.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the water storage box includes a top cover and a base. The top cover is located at the upper end of the base, and the base is used to connect with the body of the steam oven. At least one first buckle is provided on two opposite sides of the top cover. The base is provided with a first mating part that engages with the first buckle. At least one second mating part is provided on the other two opposite sides of the top cover, and the base is provided with a second buckle that engages with the second mating part.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the base is provided with a fixing protrusion and a fixing hole, the fixing protrusion being used to engage with a slot provided on the housing, and the fixing hole being used to engage with a flip-up portion provided on the housing.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the base is provided with a plurality of upwardly extending first mounting posts, and the top cover is provided with a plurality of downwardly extending second mounting posts, with the first mounting posts and the second mounting posts corresponding to each other; a filter element is provided between the first mounting posts and the second mounting posts, and the filter element is used to filter the residual water entering the water storage box.

[0017] This invention also provides a steam oven, comprising: a body, an inner liner, a steam generator, and a drainage device as described in any of the preceding embodiments; the inner liner, the steam generator, and the drainage device are disposed in the body.

[0018] The drainage device and steamer provided by this invention include a water storage box, a water pump, and a fixing sleeve. The water storage box is used to collect residual water and has an inlet pipe for collecting residual water and an outlet pipe for discharging residual water. The water pump is installed in the fixing sleeve, which is connected to the water storage box. The inlet end of the water pump is connected to the outlet pipe of the water storage box. The outlet pipe is located on the side wall of the water storage box, and the side wall of the water storage box also has an extension ring located on the outer periphery of the outlet pipe. The inlet end of the water pump is inserted into the extension ring and communicates with the outlet pipe. An elastic sealing sleeve is also provided between the inlet end of the water pump and the extension ring. This facilitates reliable installation of the water pump in the water storage box, reduces or even avoids noise caused by vibration during pump operation, and helps prevent residual water leakage. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for illustration and explanation of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described below.

[0020] Figure 1 A perspective view of a drainage device provided for an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0021] Figure 2 A front view of a drainage device provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 A top view of a drainage device provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Cross-sectional view at point AA;

[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of part B in the middle section;

[0025] Figure 6A left view of a drainage device provided as an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7 A perspective view of a drainage device provided for an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0027] Figure 8 A right view of a drainage device provided as an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 9 A bottom view of a drainage device provided as an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1-Water storage box; 1a-Inner wall of the bottom of the water storage box; 11-Inlet pipe; 12-Outlet pipe; 13-Extension ring; 14-Fixing post; 15-Top cover; 16-Base; 17-First buckle; 18-Second buckle; 19-Fixing hole; 20-First mounting post; 21-Second mounting post; 22-Fixing protrusion; 23-Water level detection piece; 24-Pressure relief port; 3-Water pump; 31-Inlet end; 5-Fixing sleeve; 51-Mounting cover; 52-Connecting edge; 53-Fastener; 7-Elastic sealing sleeve; 71-Sealing body; 72-Rib; 73-First folded edge; 74-Second folded edge. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for illustration and explanation of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described below.

[0031] In related technologies, a steam oven includes a water pump, a water tank, a steam generator, and an inner liner. During operation, the water pump draws water from the tank to the steam generator, producing a large amount of high-temperature steam to cook the food in the inner liner. This process generates a large amount of steam, which condenses into water when it encounters a cooler surface. This condensate easily accumulates at the bottom of the inner liner, forming excess water. Furthermore, during cooking, food releases water and grease, also accumulating excess water at the bottom of the inner liner. This accumulated water is difficult to clean, easily breeding bacteria and producing unpleasant odors. Therefore, it is necessary to temporarily store and drain the condensate.

[0032] However, when draining the residual water, if the conventional method of fastening the water pump to the steamer body with bolts is used, the vibration during the operation of the water pump can easily lead to excessive noise and residual water leakage.

[0033] To overcome the above problems, this invention provides a drainage device for a steam oven. By providing a water storage box, a water pump, and a fixing sleeve, the water storage box can collect residual water flowing out of the inner tank through its inlet pipe. The water pump installed at the outlet pipe of the water storage box can extract the residual water entering the water storage box, thus timely discharging the residual water from the steam oven. The fixing sleeve reliably fixes the water pump to the drain outlet. Furthermore, by providing an extension pipe around the outlet pipe and an elastic sealing sleeve between the extension pipe and the inlet end of the water pump inserted into the extension pipe, the water pump is reliably installed in the water storage box, reducing or even avoiding noise caused by vibration during pump operation, and preventing residual water leakage.

[0034] This helps prevent excess water from accumulating at the bottom of the inner tank, avoiding the problems of bacterial growth and odor caused by excess water accumulation, thus ensuring food hygiene and improving the user experience.

[0035] The structure of an embodiment of the present invention will be illustrated below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 A perspective view of a drainage device provided for an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ; Figure 2 A front view of a drainage device provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A top view of a drainage device provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 for Figure 3 Cross-sectional view at point AA; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of part B in the diagram.

[0037] Please refer to Figures 1 to 5 The drainage device for a steam oven provided in this embodiment of the invention includes: a water storage box 1, a water pump 3, and a fixing sleeve 5. The water storage box 1 has an inlet pipe 11 and an outlet pipe 12. The inlet pipe 11 is used to collect residual water. The water pump 3 is disposed at the outlet pipe 12 and installed in the fixing sleeve 5. The fixing sleeve 5 is connected to the water storage box 1, and the inlet end 31 of the water pump 3 is connected to the outlet pipe 12 of the water storage box 1.

[0038] The water storage box 1 can be cylindrical. Specifically, the water storage box 1 can be prismatic or cylindrical. The specific shape of the water storage box 1 can be set according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not impose a specific limitation. Optionally, the water storage box 1 can be prismatic to facilitate a more compact layout inside the steam oven and reduce the overall volume of the steam oven. The water storage box 1 can be roughly cubic. Optionally, in order to avoid other components inside the steam oven, a clearance part can be provided on the water storage box 1 accordingly. The specific position and structure of the clearance part can be set according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not impose a specific limitation.

[0039] The water storage box 1 can be a one-piece molded structure, which helps to ensure the sealing performance of the water storage box 1 and improves the assembly efficiency of the drainage device.

[0040] The water storage box 1 can also be a separate unit to simplify the processing of each part and improve the processing efficiency. When the water storage box 1 is a separate unit, it can have a first part and a second part that are connected to each other. The first part can be sealed to the second part, and the first part and the second part can be fixedly connected by at least one of the following methods: insertion, welding, screwing, fusion, bonding, or snap-fit. For example, the water storage box 1 includes a first part and a second part arranged axially. The first part can form the water outlet of the water storage box 1, and the second part can form the water inlet 31. The first part has an insertion interface at its end facing the second part, and the second part has an insertion end at its end facing the first part. The insertion end of the second part is inserted into the insertion interface of the first part, and a sealing ring or sealant can be provided between the outer wall of the insertion end and the inner wall of the insertion interface.

[0041] For example, the water storage box 1 includes a first part and a second part arranged axially. The first part can form the water outlet of the water storage box 1, and the second part can form the water inlet 31 of the water storage box 1. The first part and the second part are detachably connected by a coupling, and a sealing ring or sealant is respectively provided between the first part and the second part and the coupling. Of course, the specific structure of the water storage box 1 is not limited to this; this embodiment is only an example.

[0042] The water storage box 1 has a bottom wall, side walls, and a top wall. The side walls surround the outer perimeter of the bottom plate and extend upward to connect with the top plate. Thus, the bottom wall, side walls, and top wall together enclose an internal space for containing residual water. In this example, for ease of description, the direction towards the internal space is referred to as "inside".

[0043] The water storage box 1 is equipped with an inlet pipe 11 and an outlet pipe 12 that communicate with the internal space. The inlet pipe 11 is used to collect residual water in the steamer. Multiple inlet pipes 11 can be provided, one of which can collect residual water flowing out of the inner liner of the steamer, and another inlet pipe 11 can collect residual water flowing out of the steam generator. In this way, residual water from the steam generator and the inner liner of the steamer can flow into the water storage box 1, preventing food safety issues caused by bacterial growth due to residual water accumulation in the steam generator and the inner liner, and avoiding odor problems caused by residual water accumulation, thus ensuring the hygiene and safety of the user's food.

[0044] The water inlet pipe 11 can extend outward a certain distance. At least one limiting rib can be provided on the outer periphery of the water inlet pipe 11, and the limiting rib is also connected to the outer wall of the water storage box 1. When other components cooperate with the water inlet pipe 11, the limiting rib can play a limiting role. Furthermore, the limiting rib can also be used to identify the water inlet pipe 11 to avoid confusion with the water outlet pipe 12, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the steam oven.

[0045] The outlet pipe 12 of the water storage box 1 allows residual water entering the water storage box 1 to flow out. The residual water entering the water storage box 1 can be discharged at any time, or it can be discharged when the amount of residual water in the water storage box 1 reaches a certain level. The specific settings can be configured according to the user's actual situation and needs.

[0046] The outlet pipe 12 can be installed on the side wall of the water storage box 1. The outlet pipe 12 can extend outward by a predetermined length to facilitate connection with the water pump 3. Optionally, the outlet pipe 12 can be installed at a relatively lower position on the side wall of the water storage box 1 to facilitate the smooth discharge of residual water. The side wall of the water storage box 1 is also provided with an extension ring 13, which is located on the outer periphery of the outlet pipe 12, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown. Along the radial direction, there is a certain distance between the extension ring 13 and the outlet pipe 12. The extension ring 13 can be coaxially arranged with the outlet pipe 12.

[0047] A water pump 3 is installed at the outlet pipe 12 and can be used to pump out the residual water stored in the water storage box 1. The water pump 3 can be an integral part of the steam oven itself; for example, when the steam oven has a water pump 3 for drawing water from the water tank to the steam generator, this water pump 3 can also be used to pump out the residual water entering the water storage box 1. Optionally, the water pump 3 can also provide a certain negative pressure to the water storage box 1, allowing the residual water flowing out of the inner tank and / or the steam generator to quickly and rapidly enter the water storage box 1. When the steam oven has other water storage devices, the water pump 3 can be used to pump the residual water in the water storage box 1 to other water storage devices. Of course, the water pump 3 can also discharge the residual water in the water storage box 1 out of the steam oven, such as by directly pumping it to the user's drain pipe. By setting up the water pump 3, the residual water in the steam oven is discharged smoothly, which helps to improve the drainage effect of the steam oven.

[0048] The water pump 3 can extract the residual water that enters the water storage box 1, which helps to drain the residual water from the inner tank in a timely manner. This helps to prevent the residual water from accumulating at the bottom of the inner tank, thus avoiding the problems of bacterial growth and odor caused by residual water accumulating in the inner tank. This helps to ensure food hygiene and improve the user experience.

[0049] The water pump 3 can be installed to the water storage box 1 via the fixing sleeve 5, which facilitates the compactness of the drainage device, simplifies the piping layout of the steam oven, ensures the reliability of the water pump 3, and helps to avoid noise, water leakage, and other problems caused by the shaking of the water pump 3. The fixing sleeve 5 can cover the outside of the water pump 3 and is detachably connected to the water tank to reliably connect the water pump 3 to the water storage box 1, and facilitates the subsequent disassembly of the water pump 3 from the water storage box 1 for easy maintenance.

[0050] The fixing sleeve 5 can be made of metal to improve its strength, impact resistance, and the fixing reliability of the water pump 3. To further improve the fixing reliability of the fixing sleeve 5 to the water pump 3 and extend its service life, a protective layer for waterproofing and corrosion resistance can be provided on the outer surface of the fixing sleeve 5.

[0051] Optionally, the inner side of the fixing sleeve 5 that contacts the water pump 3 can be provided with an elastic pad to reduce the noise caused by the vibration of the water pump 3 and further improve the installation reliability of the water pump 3.

[0052] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the inlet end 31 of the water pump 3 is inserted into the extension ring 13 of the water storage box 1 and is connected to the outlet pipe 12. An elastic sealing sleeve 7 can be provided between the inlet end 31 of the water pump 3 and the extension ring 13. By providing the elastic sealing sleeve 7, it is beneficial to further reduce the noise caused by the vibration of the water pump 3, and the elastic sealing sleeve 7 can seal the gap between the extension ring 13 and the inlet end 31, which helps to prevent residual water leakage near the outlet pipe 12.

[0053] The drainage device provided in this embodiment comprises a water storage box 1, a water pump 3, and a fixing sleeve 5. The water storage box 1 is used to collect residual water and has an inlet pipe 11 for collecting residual water and an outlet pipe 12 for discharging residual water. The water pump 3 is installed in the fixing sleeve 5, which is connected to the water storage box 1. The inlet end 31 of the water pump 3 is connected to the outlet pipe 12 of the water storage box 1. The outlet pipe 12 is located on the side wall of the water storage box 1, and an extension ring 13 is also provided on the side wall of the water storage box 1. The extension ring 13 is located on the outer periphery of the outlet pipe 12, and the inlet end 31 of the water pump 3 is inserted into the extension ring 13 and communicates with the outlet pipe 12. An elastic sealing sleeve 7 is also provided between the inlet end 31 of the water pump 3 and the extension ring 13. In this way, it is beneficial to reliably install the water pump 3 in the water storage box 1, to reduce or even avoid noise caused by vibration during the operation of the water pump 3, and to avoid the problem of residual water leakage.

[0054] Figure 6 A left view of a drainage device provided for an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Please refer to... Figure 6 As shown, please continue to refer to Figures 1 to 3In one possible implementation, the fixing sleeve 5 includes: a mounting cover 51 and a connecting edge 52; the water pump 3 is installed in the mounting cover 51; the connecting edge 52 is located on the outer side of the mounting cover 51 away from the water pump 3 and extends outward; the water tank is provided with a plurality of spaced fixing posts 14; the connecting edge 52 is fastened to the fixing posts 14 by fasteners 53.

[0055] The shape of the mounting cover 51 is adapted to the shape of the water pump 3. When the water pump 3 is prismatic, the mounting cover 51 is hollow and prismatic. When the water pump 3 is cylindrical, the mounting cover 51 is hollow and cylindrical. The inner wall of the mounting cover 51 may be provided with an elastic pad that abuts against the water pump 3. The mounting cover 51 may also be provided with clearance holes to allow passage for structures such as the outlet end of the water pump 3.

[0056] A connecting edge 52 is provided at the end of the mounting cover 51 facing the water storage box 1. There is a certain distance between the connecting edge 52 and the end face of the mounting cover 51 to facilitate cooperation with the fixing post 14 provided on the water storage box 1. The connecting edge 52 can be integrally formed with the mounting cover 51, and can extend circumferentially and radially along the mounting cover 51. The connecting edge 52 can be a closed-loop structure extending circumferentially along the mounting cover 51, or an open-loop structure extending a certain length circumferentially along the mounting cover 51. The radial extension length of the connecting edge 52 along the mounting cover 51 can be set according to actual needs. The mounting cover 51 and the connecting edge 52 can be provided with clearance holes to allow passage of parts of the water pump 3 or other components.

[0057] The connecting edge 52 has lugs opposite to the fixing posts 14. The number and arrangement of the lugs can be adapted to the fixing posts 14. There can be two, three, or more fixing posts 14. Optionally, there are three fixing posts 14, which are distributed circumferentially at intervals along the connecting edge 52. The fixing posts 14 can be set relatively close to the edge of the corresponding side wall of the water storage box 1 to avoid partial structures of the water pump 3 or other components. The fixing posts 14 can be cylindrical or prismatic, and the cylindrical surface of the fixing post 14 can be provided with at least one reinforcing rib. The reinforcing rib is also connected to the side wall of the water storage box 1 to further improve the installation reliability of the water pump 3.

[0058] In this example, by providing an installation cover 51 for enclosure and a connecting edge 52 for connection with the water storage box 1, it is beneficial to reliably install the water pump 3 to the water storage box 1, simplify the pipeline, reduce residual water leakage points, and reduce or even avoid noise caused by vibration of the water pump 3.

[0059] Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 5In one possible implementation, the elastic sealing sleeve 7 includes: a sealing body 71 and a plurality of spaced-apart ribs 72; the sealing body 71 abuts against the water inlet end 31 of the water pump 3 and the extension ring 13; the ribs 72 are disposed on the sealing body 71; the ribs 72 extend both radially and circumferentially along the sealing body 71. The ribs 72 can be disposed on the inner side of the sealing body 71 facing the water inlet end 31, and the ribs 72 can also be disposed on the outer side of the sealing body 71; that is, the ribs 72 can be disposed on the outer side and / or the inner side of the sealing body 71. There can be two or three ribs 72.

[0060] In this example, by setting a sealing body 71 with ribs 72, the sealing body 71 can fill the gap between the water inlet end 31 and the extension ring 13. On the one hand, it can avoid the collision noise caused by the radial vibration of the water pump 3, and on the other hand, it can also play a sealing role to prevent residual water leakage.

[0061] Optionally, the elastic sealing sleeve 7 further includes a first folded edge 73 and a second folded edge 74. The first folded edge 73 is disposed at the end of the sealing body 71 facing the water outlet pipe 12 and is folded inward relative to the sealing body 71. The first folded edge 73 abuts against the end face of the water inlet 31 and the side wall of the water tank. Specifically, the first folded edge 73 abuts against the portion of the end face of the water inlet 31 and the side wall of the water tank located between the extension ring 13 and the water outlet pipe 12, so as to further improve the sealing effect.

[0062] The second folded edge 74 is located at the end of the sealing body 71 away from the outlet pipe 12 and is folded outward relative to the sealing body 71. The second folded edge 74 is used to abut against the end face of the extension ring 13 and the water pump 3 to further improve the sealing effect.

[0063] In this example, by setting the first folded edge 73 and the second folded edge 74, on the one hand, the collision noise caused by the axial vibration of the water pump 3 is avoided, and on the other hand, the sealing effect is achieved to prevent residual water leakage.

[0064] Please continue referring to 1 to 2. Figure 5 In one possible implementation, along the height direction of the water storage box 1, the inlet pipe 11 of the water storage box 1 can be set higher than the outlet pipe 12 to prevent residual water from flowing back out of the water storage box 1 from the inlet pipe 11. Specifically, the inlet pipe 11 being higher than the outlet pipe 12 can be: the distance between the center line of the inlet pipe 11 along the axial direction of the water storage box 1 and the upper surface of the water storage box 1 is less than the distance between the center line of the outlet pipe 12 along the axial direction of the water storage box 1 and the upper surface of the water storage box 1; or, the distance between the center line of the inlet pipe 11 along the axial direction of the water storage box 1 and the lower surface of the water storage box 1 is greater than the distance between the center line of the outlet pipe 12 along the axial direction of the water storage box 1 and the lower surface of the water storage box 1.

[0065] Optional, such as Figure 4 As shown, the water storage box 1 has a first end with a water outlet pipe 12 and a second end opposite to the first end. From the second end to the first end, the inner surface of the bottom wall 1a of the water storage box, i.e., the inner surface of the bottom wall of the water storage box, is inclined downwards to facilitate the smooth flow of residual water in the water storage box 1 to the water outlet pipe 12, thereby improving the drainage effect. The inclination angle of the inner surface of the bottom wall can be set according to actual needs. Optionally, the larger the inclination angle of the inner surface of the bottom wall, the more convenient it is for the residual water in the water storage box 1 to flow smoothly to the water outlet end.

[0066] Optional, such as Figure 5 As shown, part of the drain pipe is recessed downward relative to the inner wall 1a of the bottom of the surrounding water storage box to form a pit, which facilitates the flow of residual water in the water storage box 1 to a lower position under its own gravity, that is, facilitates the flow of residual water in the water storage box 1 to the water pump 3 under its own gravity.

[0067] Optionally, at least one water guide groove is provided on the inner side of the bottom wall of the water storage box 1 to guide the residual water in the water storage box 1 to the outlet pipe 12. Exemplarily, the water guide groove extends from one end of the water storage box 1 where the outlet pipe 12 is located to the other end, so as to guide the residual water to the end of the water storage box 1 where the outlet pipe 12 is located. The end of the water guide groove near the outlet pipe 12 may be curved and gradually approach the outlet pipe 12 to guide and collect the residual water at the outlet pipe 12.

[0068] In this example, by tilting the inner surface of the bottom wall of the water storage box 1, the residual water can flow to the outlet pipe 12 under its own gravity. By setting the outlet pipe 12 relatively low, the residual water can flow into the water pump 3 through the outlet pipe 12 under its own gravity. This helps to avoid the water pump 3 from being in a dredging state frequently, ensures the working reliability of the water pump 3, and extends the service life of the water pump 3.

[0069] Figure 7 A perspective view of a drainage device provided for an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 Please refer to Figure 7 And continue to refer to Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in one possible implementation, the water storage box 1 may include two parts arranged vertically. Optionally, the water storage box 1 includes a base 16 and a top cover 15. The top cover 15 covers the top opening of the base 16. The base 16 may include a bottom plate and side plates surrounding the outer periphery of the bottom plate and extending upward, with the top cover 15 covering the top of the side plates. Alternatively, the base 16 may include a bottom plate and a first side plate surrounding the outer periphery of the bottom plate and extending upward, with the top cover 15 including a top plate and a second side plate surrounding the outer periphery of the top plate and extending downward, the second side plate being connected to the first side plate.

[0070] Optionally, at least one first buckle 17 is provided on each of two opposite sides of the top cover 15; the base 16 is provided with a first mating part that engages with the first buckle 17. The top cover 15 is provided with the first buckle 17 on its two relatively shorter sides. There can be one or two first buckles 17, and the number of first mating parts is adapted to the number of first buckles 17.

[0071] The top cover 15 has at least one second mating part on each of its two opposite sides, and the base 16 has a second buckle 18 that mates with the second mating parts. The top cover 15 has two relatively shorter sides with second mating parts, which can be one, two, or three, and the number of second mating parts matches the number of second buckles 18.

[0072] The first latch 17 includes an elastic connecting part and a latching part. The elastic connecting part connects the latching part and the upper cover 15, allowing the latching part to rotate relative to each other. The latching part is provided with a latching groove, and the first mating part includes a latching block that engages with the latching groove. Thus, when it is necessary to assemble the upper cover 15 and the base 16, an external force drives the latching part of the first latch 17 to rotate downward, causing the latching block to engage in the latching groove. Of course, the structure of the first latch 17 and the first mating part is not limited to this; this embodiment is only an example. For example, the first mating part may also be provided with a latching groove, and the latching part may be provided with a latching block that engages with the latching groove.

[0073] The structure of the second latch 18 is similar to that of the first latch 17. The elastic connecting part of the second latch 18 is used to connect the latching part to the base 16. The structure of the second mating part is similar to that of the first mating part. For details, please refer to the foregoing description, which will not be repeated here.

[0074] In this example, the upper cover 15 can be reliably connected to the base 16 by connecting the first buckle 17 to the first mating part and by connecting the second buckle 18 to the second mating part, and it is convenient to remove the upper cover 15 from the base 16 for cleaning and other treatments such as cleaning the water storage box 1.

[0075] In other examples, the top cover 15 may be screwed to the base 16 by a plurality of fasteners; specifically, the top cover 15 is provided with a plurality of through holes, which are distributed circumferentially, for example, at least some of the plurality of through holes are respectively provided on the long side of the top cover 15, and the base 16 is provided with threaded holes corresponding to the through holes, and the plurality of fasteners respectively pass through the through holes and engage with the corresponding threaded holes to fasten the top cover 15 and the base 16.

[0076] A first sealing element is also provided between the upper cover 15 and the base 16 to improve the sealing performance of the water storage box 1, thereby preventing residual water from leaking from the water storage box 1. The first sealing element may specifically include a sealing gasket or a sealing layer formed by sealant. When the first sealing element includes a sealing gasket, the sealing gasket is clamped between the upper cover 15 and the base 16, and the sealing gasket can fill the gap between the upper cover 15 and the base 16 through elastic deformation, thereby achieving the purpose of sealing. When the first sealing element includes sealant, after the upper cover 15 and the base 16 are pre-positioned or fitted into place, sealant is filled at the connection between the upper cover 15 and the base 16. The sealant, with a certain degree of fluidity, can automatically fill the gap between the upper cover 15 and the base 16, thereby achieving the purpose of sealing.

[0077] Optionally, for ease of processing, the bottom wall of the base 16 is inclined. The outer side (i.e., the lower surface) of the bottom wall of the base 16 is provided with multiple downwardly extending extension plates, the lower ends of each extension plate being flush to facilitate stable support of the water storage box 1 within the steam oven. Among these extension plates, some extend laterally along the water storage box 1, while others extend longitudinally along the water storage box 1, with the longitudinally extending extension plates connected to the laterally extending extension plates.

[0078] The base 16 can be provided with a water inlet pipe 11 at the end away from the water pump 3. The water inlet pipe 11 can be used to collect the residual water flowing out of the inner liner of the steam oven. Optionally, the water inlet pipe 11 can be lower than the residual water outlet of the inner liner of the steam oven, so that the residual water in the inner liner of the steam oven can smoothly enter the water storage box 1, and can also prevent the residual water in the water storage box 1 from flowing back into the inner liner.

[0079] The top cover 15 can also be equipped with a water inlet pipe 11, which can be used to collect residual water flowing out of the steam generator of the steam oven. Optionally, the water inlet pipe 11 can be lower than the residual water outlet of the steam generator to facilitate the residual water from the steam generator to smoothly enter the water storage box 1, and also to prevent the residual water in the water storage box 1 from flowing back into the steam generator. In other examples, the water inlet pipe 11 can also be set in other positions in the water storage box 1, depending on the layout of the components inside the steam oven.

[0080] Optionally, the top cover 15 may be provided with at least one pressure relief port 24. The pressure relief port 24 is used to maintain the air pressure balance inside the water storage box 1, prevent water from being blocked and unable to drain, and help avoid blockage of the drainage device. Since the water pump 3 can easily cause pressure changes inside the water storage box 1 when it pumps out the remaining water stored in the water storage box 1, the pressure relief port 24 on the top cover 15 helps to ensure the air pressure balance between the top cover 15 and the steam oven.

[0081] Optionally, there are two pressure relief ports 24; the two pressure relief ports 24 can be spaced apart along the axial direction of the water storage box 1. The two pressure relief ports 24 can be located on both sides of the water inlet pipe 11 of the upper cover 15. The two pressure relief ports 24 can also be located on the same side of the water inlet pipe 11 of the upper cover 15. The relative positions of the pressure relief ports 24 and the water inlet pipe 11 of the upper cover 15 can be set according to actual needs.

[0082] In one possible implementation, the water storage box 1 is equipped with a water level detection element 23. The water level detection element 23 is used to detect the remaining water volume in the water storage box 1. Optionally, the water level detection element 23 includes a water level gauge, which triggers the water pump 3 to discharge the remaining water in the water storage box 1. Specifically, the water level gauge can send the detected water level information to the control unit. The control unit determines, based on the water level information, when the remaining water volume in the water storage box 1 reaches a certain amount, and controls the water pump 3 to start, thereby discharging the remaining water from the water storage box 1. This helps prevent excessive remaining water in the water storage box 1 from preventing the remaining water in the inner tank and steam generator from smoothly entering the water storage box 1. In other examples, the water level detection element 23 may also include a sensor for detecting pressure or weight, allowing the control unit to determine the remaining water volume in the water storage box 1 based on the detected pressure or weight.

[0083] Optionally, the top cover 15 is provided with a mounting hole, the water level gauge is inserted through the mounting hole, and a sealing ring is provided between the water level gauge and the mounting hole to prevent residual water in the water storage box 1 from leaking.

[0084] Optionally, the water level gauge includes a housing and a sensor, with the sensor installed in the housing and the housing installed at a mounting hole, the housing and the mounting hole being sealed together.

[0085] The housing may include a first protective cover, a second protective cover, and a mounting plate, with the mounting plate connected between the first and second protective covers. The first protective cover is located above the upper cover 15. The first protective cover is used to accommodate the portion of the sensor that protrudes upward from the upper cover 15; that is, the first protective cover is used to accommodate the upper part of the sensor. The mounting plate is used to securely connect the housing to the upper cover 15. The second protective cover is used to accommodate the lower part of the sensor.

[0086] The first protective cover is cylindrical. It has a receiving hole for accommodating the upper part of the water level gauge. This receiving hole can be adapted to the shape of the upper part of the water level gauge. Even if the upper part of the water level gauge has an irregular shape, the shape of the receiving hole only needs to be able to accommodate it. For example, the cross-section of the first protective cover can be circular or rounded rectangle. The size of the receiving hole can be slightly larger than the size of the upper part of the water level gauge to facilitate the assembly of the water level gauge and the mounting base.

[0087] The second protective cover may be cylindrical. The second protective cover passes through the mounting hole of the upper cover 15 and extends downward. The second protective cover is provided with a positioning hole that matches the shape of the lower part of the sensor. The lower part of the sensor is inserted into the positioning hole to avoid sensor tilting.

[0088] The mounting plate can be mounted on the upper surface of the cover 15, and the mounting plate can be fastened to the cover 15 by multiple fasteners. Exemplarily, the mounting plate can have multiple connecting bodies and multiple mounting ears. The connecting bodies are used to connect the first protective cover and the second protective cover, and the multiple mounting ears are respectively disposed on the edges of the connecting bodies. The mounting ears are fastened to the cover 15 by fasteners. A second sealing element can be provided between the mounting plate and the cover 15. The second sealing element can include a sealing gasket sandwiched between the mounting plate and the cover 15. The second sealing element can also include a sealing layer formed by sealant filled between the mounting plate and the cover 15. Correspondingly, a protective sleeve is provided at the position corresponding to the fastener on the cover 15. The protective sleeve has a mating hole that mates with the fastener. This mating hole is a blind hole to prevent the fastener from being exposed inside the water storage box 1 and corroded.

[0089] In one possible implementation, the drainage device may also include a filter element for filtering the residual water entering the water storage box 1 to remove larger particles in the residual water, so as to prevent blockage of the water outlet channel, including the water outlet pipe 12.

[0090] The filter element includes a filter screen, and the size of the filter screen pores can be set according to actual needs. This embodiment does not make specific limitations here.

[0091] At least a portion of the filter element can be disposed between the outlet pipe 12 and the inlet pipe 11. When there are multiple inlet pipes 11, at least a portion of the filter element can be disposed between the outlet pipe 12 and at least one of the multiple inlet pipes 11, that is, a filter element is disposed between the outlet pipe 12 and at least one of the multiple inlet pipes 11. This facilitates ensuring that residual water in the water storage box 1 can be smoothly discharged from the outlet pipe 12. Optionally, to facilitate the positioning and installation of the filter element, when the upper cover 15 is provided with an inlet pipe 11 and the base 16 is provided with an inlet pipe 11 at the end opposite to the water pump 3, the filter element can be disposed between the outlet pipe 12 and the inlet pipe 11 provided on the upper cover 15.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown, the base 16 of the water storage box 1 is provided with a plurality of first mounting posts 20 extending upward, and the top cover 15 of the water storage box 1 is provided with a plurality of second mounting posts 21 extending downward. The first mounting posts 20 and the second mounting posts 21 are provided correspondingly. The first mounting posts 20 and the second mounting posts 21 are used to install filter elements.

[0093] The first mounting post 20 and the second mounting post 21 can be cylindrical or prismatic. The number of first mounting posts 20 can be equal to or greater than the number of second mounting posts 21, which helps to ensure the reliability of the support for the filter element. The first mounting posts 20 can be arranged in a dot matrix on the base plate of the base 16.

[0094] Optionally, the base 16 is provided with multiple rows and columns of first mounting columns 20, and the upper cover 15 is provided with multiple rows and columns of second mounting columns 21. The second mounting columns 21 and the first mounting columns 20 are arranged correspondingly. The filter element is installed between the first mounting columns 20 and the second mounting columns 21. The first mounting columns 20 are used to support the filter device, and the first mounting columns 20 and the second mounting columns 21 together restrict the filter element in the installation position. This helps to ensure the installation reliability of the filter element, helps to prevent the residual water entering through the inlet pipe 11 from impacting the filter element and causing it to shift, and helps to ensure the functional reliability of the filter element.

[0095] Optionally, a mounting groove can be provided on the side plate of the base 16, and the edge of the filter element can also be installed in the mounting groove of the base 16, so as to further improve the installation reliability of the filter element, avoid the impact of residual water entering the water inlet pipe 11 on the filter element causing the filter element to shift, and ensure the functional reliability of the filter element.

[0096] Figure 8 A right view of a drainage device provided as an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0097] Figure 9 A bottom view of a drainage device provided as an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 And continue to refer to Figures 1 to 7 In one possible implementation, the base 16 is provided with a fixing protrusion 22 and a fixing hole 19. The fixing protrusion 22 is used to cooperate with a slot provided on the housing, and the fixing hole 19 is used to cooperate with a flip-up part provided on the housing. The number of fixing protrusions 22 and fixing holes 19 can be one or more. The fixing hole 19 can be provided on the side wall of the base 16, specifically on the side wall of the base 16 where the water inlet pipe 11 is provided; there can be one or more fixing holes 19. The fixing protrusion 22 is provided on the inner side of the side wall of the base 16, specifically on the inner side of the side wall of the base 16 where the water outlet pipe 12 is provided.

[0099] In this example, by providing a fixing protrusion 22 and a fixing hole 19 on the base 16, it is convenient to reliably install the water storage box 1 into the steam oven, and it is also convenient to remove the water tank for cleaning and other treatments later.

[0100] This embodiment also provides a steam oven, including: a body, an inner liner, a steam generator, and a drainage device as described in any of the foregoing embodiments; the inner liner, steam generator, and drainage device are disposed within the body. The structure, function, and implementation process of the drainage device are the same as in any of the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here. The body, inner liner, and steam generator of the steam oven, which have not been described in the foregoing embodiments, can be conventionally configured in the art.

[0101] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0102] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0103] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0104] In the above description, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0105] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A drainage device for a steam oven, characterized in that, include: A water storage box, a water pump, and a fixing sleeve; the water storage box is used to collect residual water, the water storage box has an inlet pipe for collecting residual water and an outlet pipe for discharging residual water, the water pump is installed in the fixing sleeve, the fixing sleeve is connected to the water storage box, and the inlet end of the water pump is connected to the outlet pipe of the water storage box. The water outlet pipe is located on the side wall of the water storage box, and the side wall of the water storage box is also provided with an extension ring. The extension ring is located on the outer periphery of the water outlet pipe, and the water inlet end of the water pump is inserted into the extension ring and communicates with the water outlet pipe. An elastic sealing sleeve is also provided between the water inlet end of the water pump and the extension ring. The fixing sleeve includes: a mounting cover and a connecting edge; the water pump is installed in the mounting cover; the connecting edge is located on the outer side of the mounting cover away from the water pump and extends outward; the water tank of the steamer is provided with a plurality of spaced fixing posts; the connecting edge is fastened to the fixing posts by fasteners. The elastic sealing sleeve includes: a sealing body and multiple spaced-apart ribs; The sealing body is positioned between the water inlet end of the water pump and the extension ring; The rib is disposed on the sealing body and extends circumferentially along the sealing body; The elastic sealing sleeve further includes: a first folded edge and a second folded edge; The first folded edge is disposed at the end of the sealing body facing the water outlet pipe and is folded inward relative to the sealing body. The first folded edge abuts against the end face of the water inlet and the side wall of the water tank. The second folded edge is disposed at the end of the sealing body away from the water outlet pipe and folds outward relative to the sealing body. The second folded edge is used to abut against the end face of the extension ring and the water pump.

2. The drainage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drain pipe is partially recessed downward relative to the inner side of the bottom wall of the water storage box; And / or, at least one water guide groove is provided on the inner side of the bottom wall of the water storage box, the water guide groove being used to guide the remaining water in the water storage box to the water outlet pipe.

3. The drainage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the height direction of the water storage box, the water inlet pipe of the water storage box is higher than the water outlet pipe; And / or, the water storage box has a first end with the water outlet pipe and a second end opposite to the first end; from the second end to the first end, the bottom inner wall of the water storage box is inclined downward.

4. The drainage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water storage box includes a top cover and a base. The top cover is located at the upper end of the base, and the base is used to connect with the body of the steam oven. At least one first buckle is provided on each of two opposite sides of the top cover; the base is provided with a first mating part that engages with the first buckle; The top cover has at least one second mating part on each of its two opposite sides, and the base has a second buckle that mates with the second mating part.

5. The drainage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base is provided with a fixing protrusion and a fixing hole. The fixing protrusion is used to cooperate with the slot provided on the box body, and the fixing hole is used to cooperate with the flip-up part provided on the box body.

6. The drainage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base is provided with a plurality of upwardly extending first mounting posts, and the top cover is provided with a plurality of downwardly extending second mounting posts, with the first mounting posts and the second mounting posts corresponding to each other; a filter element is provided between the first mounting posts and the second mounting posts, and the filter element is used to filter the residual water entering the water storage box.

7. A steamer, characterized in that, include: The enclosure, inner liner, steam generator, and drainage device as described in any one of claims 1-6; the inner liner, steam generator, and drainage device are disposed in the enclosure.

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